This article reveals the secret behind the durability of Roman concrete, one of the most ancient and successful construction materials. It turns out that the Romans used hot-mixing techniques, which included adding quicklime, to create a self-healing concrete that could fill cracks when water was introduced. This incredibly durable material has kept structures such as the Pantheon in Rome intact for two millennia. The findings of this study could help reduce the environmental impact of cement production, which currently accounts for 8 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Read full article here
Culture
The Priest in the Arena
The phrase “man in the arena” has been popularized in recent years, but a lesser known, more dangerous archetype is the “priest in the arena”. This figure is responsible for a process called theocratic capture, where an institution surrenders to a cult demanding unaccountable authority, fueled by claims to privileged knowledge. These cults often target powerful institutions and attempt to monopolize conversations with scaremongering tactics and hostile treatment of allies. It is important to identify and stop theocratic capture before it can gain control. Read full article here
Merv
May 29, 2023
